Lasting Wearable technology not as effective as previously thought

A recent study has concluded that wearable devices that monitor physical activity are not effective for sustaining weight loss. The study followed 470 participants over a 2 year period and found that those who did not use wearable devices showed nearly twice the weight loss benefits at follow-up. All participants were placed on low-calorie diets, given physical activity advice and received group counselling on nutrition, after 6 months half continued the sessions, whilst the others received the devices.

The researchers concluded that wearable devices do not confer an advantage to those looking to lose weight, over those using standard interventions. They further concluded that whilst these devices provided feedback and encouragement, they did not enhance adherence to healthy lifestyles, which is one of the most important aspects of committing to weight loss. The study’s lead researcher, John Jakicic said that ‘these devices should not be relied upon as tools for weight management in place of effective behavioural counselling for physical activity and diet’. Effective long-term treatments are needed for obesity, and rigorous assessment of current management plans must continue, as is the case with this study.